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Colours of Japan

A Beautiful Tour of Ancient & Modern Wonders

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Embark on an unforgettable journey with the “Colours of Japan” autumn tour, where you‘ll witness Japan’s breathtaking autumn colours., also known as KOYO. In November, the country becomes a vibrant tapestry of colours, with snow-capped mountains providing a striking backdrop to fiery autumn hues.

Explore Tokyo’s iconic streets filled with golden Ginkgo trees showering the vibrant sidewalks with leaves. Walk through Kyoto’s numerous temples and shrines adorned with colourful foliage and be mesmerised by the serene and tranquil environment. You will stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan in Fijikawaguchiko-machi and enjoy an Osen well-being experience.

The tour also includes a hands-on sushi experience in Nara and a Wagashi sweets experience in Kyoto. And don’t miss the historic Shirakawa-go farmhouses, a UNESCO Heritage site, and the stunning views of Ranzan Kyoto, Kamikochi Ngano, and the Fuji Omuro Sengen Jinja Shrine.

Come and experience the magic of Japan’s autumn colours, which have drawn traveler's to the country for centuries. With this tour, you’ll get to witness the stunning natural landscape and immerse yourself in authentic Japanese culture, creating unforgettable memories.

Highlights

  • Stunning Koyo view of Ranzan Kyoto Kamikochi Nagano and Fuji Omuro Sengen Jinja Shrine
  • Stay at a traditional “Ryokan” (inn) at Fujikawaguchiko-machi an Osen well-being experience
  • See the historic thatched-roof farmshouses of Shirakawa-go
  • Fun Sushi Experience in Nara and Wagashi (Sweets) Experience in Kyoto

Itinerary

Monday 4th November

Location Pin

Auckland – Shanghai

Make your own way to Auckland International Airport to catch flight MU780 (22:00-06:00+1) to Shanghai.

Monday 4th November

Location Pin

Shanghai – Tokyo

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Catch your connecting flight MU523 (09:10-12:50) to Tokyo. Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be met and greeted by CTS local representative who will transfer you to your hotel to rest. Later that evening, you will be taken to a restaurant for a welcome Dinner.

Hotel Accommodation: Shinagawa Prince Hotel or similar (1 night)

Wednesday 6th November

Location Pin

Tokyo – Kobe – Osaka

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

You will take a 3-hour bullet train ride to Osaka and continue by bus to Kobe. Admire the stunning Akashi Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, and stroll at the beautiful Mosaic Square overlooking the harbor. Head back to Osaka for the night.

Hotel Accommodation: Courtyard By Marriott Shin-Osaka Station or similar (3 nights)

Thursday 7th November

Location Pin

Osaka – Nara – Osaka

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Lunch

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Ascend Tsutenkaku tower for panoramic city views. Immerse in the lively atmosphere of retro Shinsekai with its street food delights. Explore Nara, home to ancient temples like Todai-ji with its awe-inspiring Daibutsu Buddha. Indulge in a sushi-making experience at Umeimori Sushi School, followed by interacting with friendly deer in Nara Park's enchanting surroundings.

Hotel Accommodation: Courtyard By Marriott Shin-Osaka Station or similar (3 nights)

Friday 8th November

Location Pin

Osaka

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Discover Osaka's highlights: Osaka Castle, a historic symbol with remarkable architecture. Explore Osaka Museum of Housing and Living for cultural insights. Shop in vibrant Shinsaibashi. Experience Dotonbori's neon lights, street food to conclude a fulfilling day in Osaka.

Hotel Accommodation: Courtyard By Marriott Shin-Osaka Station or similar (3 nights)

Saturday 9th November

Location Pin

Osaka – Kyoto

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

After breakfast, head to Kyoto. Begin at Kiyomizu-dera Temple for stunning views. Learn to make wagashi sweets. Explore Gion Hanami-Koji for preserved architecture and geisha culture. Visit Yasaka Shrine for scenic beauty. Lastly, explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, hike through torii gates, and immerse in spiritual serenity.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande or similar (2 nights)

Sunday 10th November

Location Pin

Kyoto

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Discover Kyoto's beauty on a full-day tour. Begin at the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mystical forest adorned with vibrant autumn colors. Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, renowned for Zen gardens and a serene pond. Stroll through the temple, admire traditional architecture, and experience the harmony of nature and human design. Then, marvel at the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, reflecting its shimmering gold leaf exterior in a tranquil pond. Be captivated by this Zen temple's exquisite beauty and meticulously maintained gardens.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande or similar (2 nights)

Tuesday 11th June

Location Pin

Kyoto – Takayama

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Lunch

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Visit Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses. Marvel at the unique architecture and explore the village. Next, discover Takayama Jinya, a well-preserved Edo-period government office. Wander through Hida Takayama Sanmachi Suji, an Edo-period district with traditional wooden buildings, offering shopping, cafes, and sake breweries. Conclude at Takayama Yatai Kaikan, unveiling the intricate festival floats and local festival traditions. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort or a similar (1 night)

Tuesday 12th November

Location Pin

Takayama – Matsumoto

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Travel to Matsumoto today. Explore Matsumoto Castle and its grounds, visit the lively Asaichi morning market, and then proceed to Kamikochi, a picturesque mountain resort known for its natural beauty. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, cross the famous Kappa Bridge, and enjoy the serene alpine landscape. Return to Matsumoto to tour Matsumoto Castle in detail, exploring historical exhibits and enjoying panoramic views.

Hotel Accommodation: Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel or similar (1 night)

Wednesday 13th November

Location Pin

Matsumoto – Mt Fuji

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Embark on a Mount Fuji adventure, exploring its lakes. Experience lively Shojin Street and local delicacies. Visit Suwa Taisha Park for breathtaking views. Discover winemaking at MARS Winery. Wander the colorful Kawaguchiko Maple Corridor. Tonight enjoy a traditional Japanese Ryokan in Fijikawaguchiko-machi and an Osen well-being experience.

Hotel Accommodation: Fujimihana Resort or similar (1 night)

Thursday 14th November

Location Pin

Mt Fuji – Yokohomo – Tokyo

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Dinner

Explore Tokyo with scenic stops. Discover Oshino Hakkai's stunning ponds fed by Mount Fuji's snow. Visit Shin-Kurayama Asama Shrine for tranquility. Enjoy bay views at Yamashita Park in Yokohama. Indulge in a Chinese dinner in bustling Yokohama Chinatown, the world's largest.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Metropolitan Ikebukuro or similar (1 night)

Friday 15th November

Location Pin

Tokyo

Cup of coffee

Breakfast

Fork & Knife

Lunch

Visit Odaiba Seaside Park in the vibrant Odaiba area. Enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the city skyline while taking a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Relax on the beach and feel the refreshing sea breeze. There are also recreational activities like cycling and picnicking available(own expense), and nearby attractions such as Rainbow Bridge and futuristic shopping malls to explore. Afterwards, have a farewell lunch at a local restaurant where you can savor delicious Japanese cuisine and try regional specialties.


Following lunch, head to Tokyo International Airport for the return flight to Shanghai on Flight MU522 (15:25-18:20+1). Make sure you have your belongings and travel documents ready for departure.

Saturday 16th November

Location Pin

Shanghai – Auckland

Catch your connecting flight MU779 (00:15-16:15) to Auckland.

Inclusions

  • International flights (economy class with air tax)
  • Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, twin share rooms
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary(11 breakfasts, 3 Lunches & 10 Dinners)
  • Local Professional, English-Speaking Japanese Guide
  • Bus transfers as specified
  • Shinkansen ticket(bullet train)
  • Gratuities & Admission fees for sightseeing as per itinerary.

Upgrades

We are pleased to offer the opportunity to upgrade to premium economy or business class. Kindly inquire about the pricing details during the booking process. deposit amount will be adjusted accordingly as well.

Cost

Twin Share Single
Cost per person* AKL - AKL $8,888 +$2,650

*Itinerary and costs subject to change. Airline, fuel charges and currency fluctuations prior to final payment

Exclusions

  • Japan Visa fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Other misc. expenses

Terms & Conditions

  1. Please make a deposit of $2500 NZD per person at the time of registration. If the tour is confirmed, please make the final payment before August 30th. Once the deposit is paid, it is non-refundable unless China Travel Service (NZ) Ltd confirms the cancellation of the tour or if local laws require a refund. After August 30th, no full refunds will be provided.
  2. This tour requires a minimum group size of 15 people. In the event that the minimum group size is not met, China Travel Service (NZ) Ltd reserves the right to cancel the tour. In such cases, we will refund the full deposit amount to the guests. We will provide the initial and final confirmation regarding the departure of the tour by July 5th.
  3. We strongly recommend that guests purchase travel insurance.
  4. To ensure the tour is enjoyable for you and others in the group, a reasonable standard of fitness and mobility is required.
  5. China Travel Service (NZ) Ltd reserves the right to make temporary itinerary changes or terminate the tour due to force majeure factors, including but not limited to war, natural disasters, strikes, and other unforeseen circumstances. If this tour is cancelled/postponed due to Covid-19 Government travel restrictions China Travel Service (N.Z) Ltd reserves the right, in addition to any supplier imposed amendment and cancellation fees, to charge a service and administrative fee of $500 per person.
  6. China Travel Service (NZ) Ltd will assist in every way possible but accepts no liability for any additional costs incurred.Note: China Travel Service (NZ) Ltd reserves the right to correct errors and omissions on our website without recourse.* Itinerary subject to change